Published Paper Details:

Kolleru Lake, a Ramsar wetland, faces severe heavy metal contamination from aquaculture, industry, and agriculture. This study assessed heavy metal (Pb, Hg, Cd, Cr, As) concentrations in water and sediments during pre-monsoon and post-monsoon periods in 2024, comparing them to WHO drinking water limits and ecological thresholds. Results showed that Pb, Hg, and Cd in water frequently exceeded WHO limits, while sediment concentrations were significantly higher, particularly for Pb. Although monsoon rainfall diluted water concentrations of some metals, others like Cr and As showed post-monsoon increases due to agricultural runoff. Elevated lead levels in water (2.8-3.5 times WHO limits) pose chronic health risks, particularly to children in downstream communities like Eluru. The persistent contamination in the lake, especially in sediments, suggests a continuous risk of public health crises similar to the 2020 Eluru illness outbreak, where lead-contaminated drinking water was implicated. The findings emphasize the urgent need for stringent effluent regulations, sediment remediation, and integrated watershed management to protect Kolleru Lake's ecological integrity, regional water security, and public health.